Our seniors have given us so much, and often all they want in return is our love and our time. In an ideal world, you could easily visit family members anytime you wished. It can be difficult to be apart from family members. However, there are ways to overcome distance and strengthen ties. Now more than ever, it’s easier to keep close to people who live far away.
Here are some ideas to help you stay connected:
1. Show your loved one you care with a thoughtful gift.
Sometimes a thoughtful gift or small gesture is just what’s needed to show someone you are thinking of them. Consider ordering a meal delivery of their favorite comfort food or sending a care package filled with items and activities they enjoy (their favorite treats, crossword puzzles, craft supplies, or playing cards). Gifts that can be enjoyed over a long period, like subscriptions, are also excellent gift ideas.
If you want to go the extra mile with a sentimental gift, photo albums filled with copies of favorite photos or digital picture frames filled with memories and photos of loved ones are a great way to not only show you care but also give seniors a visual reminder that they are loved by their family and community.
2. Reach out consistently and often.
Plan regular chats with your loved one. Ask how they prefer to stay in contact (do they like emails, phone calls, FaceTime, or receiving mail), and put this in your calendar so you don’t miss your date. Don’t underestimate the value of a hand-written letter!
Consider scheduling frequent group phone calls or video gatherings to give your loved one something special to look forward to. Video calls also allow you to evaluate your parents’ overall appearance as well as their home environment, and keep an eye out for changes in behavior or warning signs of potential health issues or cognitive decline.
3. Lighten their load.
Seniors may find it difficult to voice when they need help. It takes a lot to manage the upkeep of a home! If your loved one is having difficulty managing their housework or yard work, consider hiring someone to help.
If your senior loved one requires more than just a little assistance, consider helping them move into assisted living. Moving into a senior living community has several advantages, one of which is that members join a vibrant senior community with a full schedule of daily activities, as well as the comfort of knowing their care needs are met by staff 24 hours a day.
Being away from your loved ones can be hard, but putting in the effort can help you stay connected to your loved ones, regardless of distance and let them know you care, no matter how far away you are.
